Being pregnant is the single most precious moment a couple can share and, as a photographer, your mission is capture the deep emotion and binding love that a pregnancy represents.  At the same time, the goal is to make the unborn child the central focus of the photograph and to demonstrate just how special he or she is. 

There are three primary poses you can shoot when taking maternity photographs:  the close up of the pregnant belly, the lone mother and the couple.  Of course, it is possible to intertwine these the close up with the couple or with the lone mother, which can further add an almost spiritual quality to the photograph.

The Lone Mother

The photo of the lone mother is meant to demonstrate the intense bond a mother shares with her child.  This photo is not meant to leave the father out or to dismiss his role in the development and love of the child.  Rather, it showcases the special connection between the mother and child. 

In order to create a more tender moment, instruct the pregnant woman to gently place her hand on her belly.  Don’t be afraid to have the mother look away from the camera as the photo is taken.  In fact, having the mother look at her belly or even bow her head down with her eyes closed can result in a strikingly touching photo.  You might even add props to the picture, such as the photo below, which draws attention to the pink shoes by making it the only color element in the photo.

Depending upon the comfort level of the expectant mother, you might also take the photo in the nude while taking the necessary steps to cover up the woman’s breasts, as shown below.

The Couple

There are many different angles and poses you may choose to take when photographing a couple.  Again, don’t be afraid to stretch beyond the traditional studio setting.  A photo of the couple sitting on the beach in a loving embrace, as shown below, can help show the love between the parents and for their child.

Creative angles can also help highlight the unborn child while also creating a tender moment, such as the upward view shown in the photo below.

Studio shots of the father tenderly kissing the mother’s stomach or gently placing his ear against her belly also make for touching photographs.

The Pregnant Belly

Some of the most tender maternity photographs are the ones that don’t show any faces at all.  Photos such as the one shown below are able to successfully communicate the love shared between the couple as they embrace each other’s hands while also holding onto the pregnant belly.  The placement of the fingers so they form a heart-shaped frame around the belly button further sends the message of love and tenderness.

When taking maternity photographs, the key is to create a tender moment that captures the emotion of this special time in a couple’s life.  By using creative poses and angles that reach beyond the traditional studio photo shoot, you will certain create memories to last a liftetime.

Similar Posts:

• Tips for Taking Great Black and White Maternity Photos
• Pregnant Belly Painting: How-to-Videos
• Popular Belly Painting Contests of Recent Times!
• Creating Beautiful Memories with Child Photography
• Taking Memorable Newborn Photos